Biology: Key Terms and Concepts

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary role of sensory neurons within the nervous system?

Transmitting signals from the brain to the muscles for movement
Processing information and making decisions within the spinal cord
Supporting and insulating other neurons, ensuring efficient signal transmission
Detecting stimuli from the internal and external environment and transmitting them to the CNS (correct)

How does the hypothalamus contribute to both the nervous and endocrine systems?

It regulates hormone release from the pituitary gland and maintains homeostasis. (correct)
It is responsible for higher-level cognitive functions such as decision-making and problem-solving.
It directly controls skeletal muscle contractions through the release of neurotransmitters.
It coordinates balance and motor skills through cerebellar feedback loops.

How does nicotine affect the nervous system upon immediate exposure?

It directly stimulates the production of endorphins, resulting in pain relief and relaxation.
It blocks dopamine receptors, causing a temporary decrease in mood and motivation.
It acts as an inhibitory neurotransmitter, slowing down nerve impulse transmission.
It mimics acetylcholine, leading to heightened neuronal activity and increased alertness. (correct)

What is the key distinction between a stimulant and other categories of psychoactive drugs?

Stimulants increase central nervous system activity, whereas depressants slow it down. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What role do dendrites play in neuronal communication?

Receiving incoming signals from other neurons or sensory cells (A) Signup and view all the answers

How does the central nervous system (CNS) differ in function from the peripheral nervous system (PNS)?

The CNS processes information and makes decisions, whereas the PNS transmits signals to and from the CNS. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of motor neurons?

Transmitting signals from the brain or spinal cord to muscles or glands (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does the placenta facilitate the exchange of materials between the mother and the developing fetus?

It allows for the diffusion of nutrients and oxygen from the mother's blood into the fetal blood. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of testosterone in the human body?

Promoting the development of secondary sexual characteristics in males (B) Signup and view all the answers

During which stage of development does a zygote form?

After fertilization, when the sperm and egg fuse (C) Signup and view all the answers

Which hormones are the main stimulators for the maturation of gonads?

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) (B) Signup and view all the answers

What role does the pancreas play in the endocrine system?

It secretes hormones that regulate blood sugar levels. (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does puberty relate to the endocrine and reproductive systems?

It involves maturation of the reproductive organs and development of secondary sexual characteristics driven by hormones. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What primary event marks the beginning of menstruation?

Shedding of the uterine lining (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which part of the ear do sound waves first enter?

Auditory canal (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of the nervous system?

To control and coordinate bodily functions and responses (D) Signup and view all the answers

What system enables you to understand the words you read in a book?

The nervous system (A) Signup and view all the answers

What is the largest part of the brain?

Cerebrum (C) Signup and view all the answers

How does nicotine affect chemical digestion?

It can interfere with normal digestive processes. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Where does chemical digestion primarily begin?

Mouth (C) Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Nervous System

The body's control center, coordinating actions and transmitting signals.

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Brain and spinal cord; controls most functions of the body and mind.